A seminar on developing a more responsive state
Chaired by Prof Nick Watson
The Strathclyde Centre for Disability Research
Venue
Room 709, Boyd Orr Building,
University of Glasgow,
University Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8QQ
Date and Time
10 September, 2015
1.30 - 4.00 pm
Guest Speaker, Prof. Martha Albertson Fineman, Robert W. Woodruff Professor of Law, and
Director of the Feminism and Legal Theory Project, and The Vulnerability and the Human Condition Initiative Emory University School of Law, Atlanta, Georgia
Are we putting too much emphasis on ‘rights’ when we discuss or legislate on ‘human rights’? Prof Fineman believes we are; and argues that we should look more closely at the ‘human’ aspects of ‘human rights’.
Human rights legislation, she asserts, divides communities, by labelling some as ‘protected’ under the law and the rest as ‘unprotected’. This division results in tensions not just between the ‘protected’ and ‘unprotected, but among the ‘protected’ themselves, for ever decreasing resources.
Her concept of ‘universal vulnerability’ is attracting interest in both America and Europe. This states that we should conceive ‘vulnerability’ as a natural state within the human being.
While our vulnerability is more apparent at different times and ages over the life-course, it is a constant and defining characteristic of the human condition. As such, human vulnerability and the need it generates to build resilience within social institutions and relationships should constitute the basis of a more responsive and equitable state.
At this seminar she will explain how her ‘universal vulnerability’ theory could frame arguments to rebut neoliberal emphasis on “personal responsibility” and “individual liberty.” There will then be three, five minute, responses, one each from:
- The Disabled People’s Independent Living Movement in Scotland
- The Strathclyde Centre for Disability Research at the University of Glasgow
- The Institute for Research and Innovation in Social Services
This will be followed by an open discussion.
To sign up for this event, visit the Eventbrite link here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/promoting-the-human-in-human-rights-a-seminar-on-developing-a-more-responsive-state-tickets-17880116911 or call Glasgow Centre for Inclusive Living on 0141 375 0464.
